Los Angeles — Red carpet trends embraced retro-glam looks
influenced by the ’40s, ’50s and ’60s at the 82nd Annual Academy Awards
on March 7. Shades of blue — from sapphire and aqua to slate and
midnight — were prevalent, with rich hues of purple and crimson also
popular. Jewelry trends continue to focus on the ear and wrist,
although there were a few noteworthy necklaces and rings.

Undoubtedly, the trend for asymmetrical necklines, strapless
and bejeweled bodices have placed greater emphasis on earrings, with a
wide array of styles spied on the red carpet including long chainmail-esque
chandelier, tassel, hoop and teardrop designs. Also, bracelets remain
an accessory must, with the fashion forward stacking a single wrist
instead of two in a mix of types and styles against architectural
draping and layers of ruffles that draw the eye down the silhouette.

“The most striking sight on the red carpet was the amount of
wonderful color — from Jennifer Lopez in lavender to Mo’Nique and
Maggie Gyllenhaal in shades of blue, and Sigourney Weaver in red,”
describes Michael O’Connor, jewelry and style expert for Style &
Substance Inc. in New York. “Colored gemstones were popular choices for
celebrities to create that Oscar glamour.” He notes that stylists mixed
and matched for both monochromatic and contrasting looks in color.

Although big bold necklaces have dominated ready-to-wear runways for
several seasons now, the red carpet has been void of much neckwear. At
the Oscars, one of the most memorable necklaces of the night was a
19-carat yellow diamond platinum lavalliere by Tiffany & Co. as
worn by Kate Winslet in a platinum strapless Yves Saint Laurent gown.
She also sported 10-carat yellow diamond platinum drop earrings and
three yellow diamond platinum bracelets.

But bold, gemmy cocktail rings remain a big fashion do for
icons on the red carpet. In addition to Saldana’s statement-making
amethyst ring, there were several other striking examples.

The Look: Earrings are the go-to red carpet accessory, ideal to
adorn popular asymmetrical necklines, single shoulder and strapless
styles.

Key Items: A range of earring styles is in, most notably
elongated chandeliers, bold drops and dangling tassels. Stacked
bracelets and bold cocktail rings also are Oscar worthy, with the
newest take decorating only one wrist and flashing a singular
statement-making ring. The preferred metal on the carpet: platinum!

Top Gems: Popular Oscar rocks include sapphire, emerald and
ruby, as well as organic gems like coral and pearl. Also spied were
jewels set with onyx, jade, amethyst, aquamarine and opal, as well as a
range of fancy color diamonds.